Australia’s peak industry body for vegetable and potato growers, AUSVEG, has welcomed the country's first female Minister for Agriculture - Deputy Nationals Leader Bridget McKenzie.

“Given Senator McKenzie’s past involvement in rural affairs and strong advocacy for our industries, we are glad to welcome her to the role and look forward to working closely alongside her and all members of the Government to ensure Australia’s vegetable and potato growers can be productive, profitable and globally competitive,” says AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside.

“We would like to thank Minister Littleproud and Minister Colbeck for their valuable contributions as former Minister and Assistant Minister for Agriculture and look forward to continue working closely with them in their new roles," he adds.

Along with McKenzie, the Australia Government has announced its new Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries - Liberal Senator for Tasmania Jonathon Duniam.

Regarding these appointees, Whiteside commented: “The Australian agriculture industry is fortunate to have many strong and passionate advocates that are committed to supporting the industry and the many thousands of workers that contribute to producing our food and fibre."

He went on to elaborate on the industry's aims, highlighting his belief in Senator McKenzie to see them actualized.

“It is important that we provide vegetable and potato growers with the support and opportunities that they need to continue to produce high-quality fresh vegetables for local and international consumers so that they can build their businesses to support themselves, their families and their communities.

"In our industry’s effort to grow the value of Australian agriculture to $100 billion, the horticulture industry will be vital to help realise this ambitious goal. I look forward to working with Senator McKenzie and the Morrison Government to help realise the potential for our industry to thrive into the future."